A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Effective OKRs

OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) are one of the best agile goal-setting frameworks. But people often struggle with writing effective OKRs. And the main reason? Writing vague objectives and non-measurable key results.

Here are some best practices for writing effective OKRs:

1. Write Inspiring and Clear Objectives

Effective objectives strike a balance between aspirational goals and realistic targets (think SMART), driving teams towards meaningful outcomes. So take the time to articulate your objectives in plain language, ensuring they’re not only clear but also connected to the organizational purpose.

✗ Poorly written objective: “Improve customer satisfaction.”
✔ Meaningful objective: “Increase customer satisfaction with our support experience.”

2. Define Measurable Key Results

Key results are the measurable indicators of success. They must be specific, quantifiable, and time-bound, not just vague tasks to be done.

✗ Vaguely defined key result: “Improve customer support experience.”
✔ Actionable key result: “Increase our average customer satisfaction (CSAT) to more than 85% by the end of Q2.”

3. Leverage Continuous Feedback

OKRs are not a one-time event like annual goal-setting. They require continuous tracking and adapting. So leverage continuous feedback techniques like peer feedback and check-in meetings to keep teams aligned and identify blockers early.

✔ Promote peer feedback to appreciate achievements and adjust key results based on the latest available information.
✔ Schedule weekly or bi-weekly check-in meetings to review progress.
✔ Use an OKR tool, like Peptrics, to track, refine, and align OKRs.

Remember, writing great OKRs is a continuous learning process. If you’re committed to writing better OKRs, you’re already making progress, with every iteration bringing you closer to clarity and impact. Here’s to your next successful OKR cycle!